WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall (D. W.Va.) issued the following statement today as the House began debate to repeal the health care reform law:

“I intend to vote against an outright repeal of the health care reform law.

“Even the law’s most vehement critics must acknowledge its benefits in West Virginia. More than 30,000 seniors in West Virginia have received additional assistance in paying costly Medicare prescription drug bills, and now receive fifty percent discounts on generic drugs. More than 370,000 Medicare beneficiaries now have access to free annual preventive care visits. West Virginians are no longer subject to lifetime limits on their health insurance, and those who have been denied coverage due to a pre-existing condition can now apply for affordable insurance. Young adults now are able to stay on their parents’ insurance through age 26. Coal miners suffering from black lung are having an easier time getting access to the medical benefits they have earned and desperately need.

“However, these benefits must not blind us to the need for additional – and, in some cases – significant changes. I recognize there are passionate views about the health reform law, and the Congress has a responsibility to respond to those concerns. I have already cosponsored legislation to remove overly burdensome reporting requirements for small businesses, the so-called 1099 requirement. I will continue listening to the views of all my constituents, and working diligently with my colleagues from both sides of the aisle, to make further improvements.

“I have worked tirelessly to improve access to affordable, quality health care for West Virginians. I have seen first-hand how our seniors and working families struggle to afford basic care. West Virginians deserve a health care system that will work for them when they need it most.”